Best Rebounder for Seniors
Choosing the best rebounders for seniors requires a balance between stability and function. While it’s a great form of exercise for older people because it’s low-impact, there’s no point in risking an injury in the process!
In this article, we’ll review the 7 best rebounders for seniors. After that, we’ll cover some information on making the right pick before answering some common questions about using rebounders.
Hopefully, by the end of the article, you’ll be armed with all the necessary information to make the right selection.
At a Glance Here Are The Best Rebounders For Seniors:
Table could not be displayed.In making our picks for the best rebounders for seniors, we’ve prioritised stability and ease of use over everything else. Of course, the rebounders we’ve picked are great quality, too, but that’s a given.
1. Jandecfit 44” Rebounder with Handle
This rebounder from Jandecfit has numerous features that make it ideal for seniors. First, it has a stability handle that’s height adjustable, giving you something to hold on to for balance while rebounding.
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Second, it has arched legs, which make it far more stable than other models. As such, it’ll be fine to use on both carpet and hard flooring. Just make sure you have enough headroom!
The trampoline uses latex bungee cords rather than springs. It means your movements are quieter and that the platform has a less intense rebound. The only real downside is that it’s not as easy to tighten if the platform gets loose.
The jumping pad is 44 inches in diameter and supports up to 150kg in weight. As such, it should be ideal for most seniors looking to lose weight through rebounding.
Pros
· Numerous stability features.
· Use bungee cords rather than springs.
· Weight allowance up to 150kg.
Cons
· Bungee cords need replacing if the pad gets loose.
If you need a rebounder that you can store easily, this one from Hyeed might be the model for you. It folds into quarters so you can store or transport it. Don’t worry, though, the rebounder locks in place for stability when it’s open.
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As it’s smaller than the Jandecfit model, its weight allowance is less. However, at 100kg, it’s still not bad. Being foldable does affect this, too. So, it’s useful if you need something storable, but you’ll have to look elsewhere if you need a higher weight limit.
Its platform uses bungee cords and springs. It means it could be slightly louder than a purely bungee cord platform, but you can easily replace or tighten the springs if it starts to sag.
There’s a stability bar for you to hold on to while rebounding, which is height adjustable with a 25cm range. While you do sacrifice some weight limit because it’s foldable, this rebounder for seniors still isn’t lacking in functionality.
Pros
· Can be folded for storage or transportation.
· Height adjustable stability handle.
· Springs are easy to tighten or replace.
Cons
· Weight limit is lower than on fixed models.
Like the other entries on this list, MXL’s rebounder comes with a stability handle. However, it’s completely detachable if you feel you don’t need it. The rebounder itself weighs 12kg, so there’s very little danger of it tipping over when using it without the handle.
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While this rebounder isn’t fully foldable, you can fold its legs up to flatten it for storage. They’re spring-loaded and lock in place, so you don’t have to worry about it collapsing under you.
Although it’s the same size as the Hyeed rebounder, this one has a weight limit of 150kg. As such, it’s a good compromise between the larger Jandecfit model and the smaller Hyeed model.
It uses 36 steel springs for bounce and a polypropylene bouncing pad. While bungee cords are generally the better option for noise levels, this one is fairly quiet because it’s good quality. So, you won’t have to worry about bouncing too hard and disturbing people!
Pros
· Good size to weight ratio.
· Detachable stability handle.
· Legs fold up for easy storage without compromising rebounder stability.
Cons
· Springs are generally noisier than bungee cords.
4. Gielmiy 48” Fitness Rebounder
The Gielmiy fitness rebounder is another that only uses bungee cords. It means it’s the closest you’ll get to a truly silent rebounders for seniors. Although it does need some assembly out of the box, it’s really not a difficult process. However, if you want one without any assembly, the MXL would be a better option.
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The rebounder is octagonal, which gives you slightly more jumping space than a circular one. In theory, it shouldn’t make a massive difference, but if you’re concerned about your technique, it might be helpful.
It’s got a stability handle, although it’s a bar with two handles rather than one long bar. Again, it won’t make a massive difference but could be helpful if you’re worried about a larger bar getting in the way. The bar is height adjustable between 115cm and 135cm, giving you plenty of flexibility.
There are 8 legs with rubber feet, meaning it’s suitable for all floor surfaces. However, the legs aren’t arched, so it does lack a small amount of stability when compared to the Jandecfit model. The weight limit is 150kg here, too, so it makes no difference to that.
Pros
· Only uses bungee cords – quieter bounce.
· Height adjustable handle.
· Octagonal base gives more jumping space.
Cons
· Can’t be folded up for storage.
5. Maximus Bounce and Burn Folding Indoor Trampoline
This 40” rebounder from Maximus folds up for convenient storage. Luckily, you don’t lose any stability, as everything locks in place once it’s open. There’s also an included handle, which unscrews for when you don’t need it.
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Unlike some other models on this list, it doesn’t require assembly out of the box. As such, it’s a great option for those who want convenience or might struggle threading bungee cords. You simply unfold it and you’re ready to bounce.
It uses springs like the other folding models on this list. While it might be slightly noisier, it does provide a good rebound and is less prone to sagging than a bungee cord model. Plus, if it does, you can just tighten or replace the springs.
The weight allowance is 140kg, so it’s slightly lower than the top performers on this list. However, 10kg isn’t a massive difference, and if you need it, there are plenty of other models to choose from. This rebounder combines the convenience of a folding model with the durability of a fixed model. Its only real sacrifice is the 10kg from the weight limit.
Pros
· Foldable for easy storage.
· Detachable handle.
· Rebounding platform and springs are durable.
Cons
· Slightly lower weight limit than others.
6. Cloris Foldable 40” Rebounder
The main advantage of this Cloris rebounder over others on this list is that it has a weight limit of 180kg. While not everyone will need a higher weight limit, some people obviously will, so it’s nice to know there are some options out there.
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It uses a U-shaped handle rather than a T-bar. While some might prefer a smaller handle, this one gives you more flexibility over where you hold onto it. It’s height adjustable and has foam hand grips for comfort.
Like other folding models, it uses springs for bounce. It has a cover over them for protection and to reduce the risk of injury. While it might be slightly louder than bungee cord models, springs have greater resilience.
The feet have large rubber pads for extra stability when compared to other models on this list. The jumping pad is also non-slip, so it should provide a great feeling of stability and security overall.
Pros
· Higher weight limit than other rebounders.
· Plenty of stability features.
· Folds up for easy storage when not in use.
Cons
· Springs can be loud if not properly maintained.
7. Gymax 40” Folding Rebounder
Although this model from Gymax is another folding rebounder, it comes with a set of resistance bands. It means you get another form of exercise from the rebounder, allowing you to work your upper body, too. Of course, don’t try this until you’re confident with your balance.
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Also, unlike other folding models, it uses bungee cords. It’s therefore a good balance between noise levels and convenience. So, if you want the quietest type of rebounder possible but want to store it, this could be the model for you.
However, its weight limit is 120kg, so it sits in the middle of the pack. It’s not a massive issue, though, as you’ve got plenty of other options with higher weight limits. You might just have to sacrifice the convenience of a folding model.
It has an adjustable U-shaped handle for stability and legs with rubber feet. Unfortunately, the legs don’t actually fold, so you’ll need to unscrew them if you want to store it! Considering this is a big part of a folding rebounder, it might be enough to put some people off.
Pros
· Folding model with bungee cords.
· Comes with added resistance bands.
· Stable legs and handle.
Cons
· Legs don’t actually fold up.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Rebounder for Seniors
Choosing rebounders for seniors requires slightly different criteria to younger adults. For the most part, there should be a good selection online. So, when picking the best rebounder for seniors, here’s what you should consider.
Stability
Stability is a top priority for exercise equipment for seniors. A person’s balance gets worse as they get older, mainly due to the death of cells within the ear’s vestibular system. This is what helps us perceive balance.
The most important factor for stability on a rebounder is a good set of legs. They should be evenly spaced with rubber anti-slip caps. Arched legs generally provide better stability, but the difference isn’t massive.
Another thing to look for is handlebars. You hold onto these when rebounding for extra balance. Of course, it’s not a must, but novice rebounders of all ages can benefit from using a handlebar.
If you’re confident your balance will get better with practice, look for one with a detachable handlebar. It’s more common on folding models, but you’ll find some fixed models with this feature.
Storage
There’s no denying that rebounders are fairly bulky pieces of exercise equipment. Sure, they’re not on the same level as an elliptical machine or exercise bike, but they still take up space.
To remedy this, you can opt for a folding model. Ideally, it should fold at least in half, although some fold into quarters. Check how the legs fold away, as this differs between models. A set of legs that fold up and are held in place with a strap is the best option.
Of course, it’s worth paying attention to how the rebounder fixes together when in use. It should have screws you can tighten to keep it unfolded. If it doesn’t, you run the risk of it folding under you. Granted, it might be a small risk, but it’s there nonetheless.
Springs or Bungee Cords
One of the main things you’ll notice when picking out a rebounder is the bounce system it uses. It’ll either be springs or bungee cords, but some use a combination of the two.
But how do you decide which is the right choice? There are several factors, but bungee cords are generally the better option. Here’s why.
First, bungee cords offer a deeper bounce that’s also gentler. If you’re rebounding to strengthen your muscles and joints, this is a better option.
Also, bungee cords are quieter. They’re about as close to silent as you’ll get from a rebounder. While this might not be a massive deal for everyone, it’s particularly helpful if you plan on using your rebounder indoors.
There are some benefits to springs, though. The first is that they’re usually cheaper, so are a good choice for people who want to test rebounding without spending loads of money.
Spring rebounders are firmer, meaning they’re better for jogging exercises. However, the trade off is that they’re slightly harsher on your joints, although the difference is negligible.
Springs will typically last a bit longer, too. Also, it’s easier to change a single saggy spring than a whole bungee cord, particularly if you have health issues that limit your dexterity.
Overall, there are benefits to each kind of bounce system. That said, bungee cords take the lead, so are generally the better option.
Size and Shape
Most rebounders for seniors range in diameter from 40 to 50 inches. A larger jumping pad gives you more room, which is helpful if you’re not as steady on your feet.
You’ll get a deeper bounce on larger rebounders, simply because there’s more material to stretch. This may or may not be a good thing depending on the exercise you plan to do. If you want to do jogging, opt for a smaller rebounder.
The same is basically true for shape. You’ll find rebounders are either circular or octagonal – circular is more common. An octagonal rebounder has a larger surface area, giving you slightly more bounce. Shape is less of an important factor than size, though.
Materials
Rebounder frames are almost always made from steel or aluminium tubes. Both are durable, but aluminium is slightly lighter. This’ll probably only be important if you plan to move your rebounder a lot. If it’s staying in one place, frame material shouldn’t matter.
Then there’s the mat’s material. It’ll usually be nylon, polypropylene, or some other synthetic fibre. They all have similar levels of resistance and durability, so don’t worry too hard about this.
Weight Limit
There’s really not much to say about weight limit. A 150kg limit is most common, but, as you can see from this list, there are models with higher and lower limits.
Simply choose one based on how much you weigh. Make sure you factor in things like dumbbells if you plan to use them, but they shouldn’t make too much difference.
As a general rule, heavier people will bounce lower on a rebounder than lighter people. However, you can get around this by choosing a rebounder with greater resistance, such as one with springs.
Budget
There’s no clear answer as to what is the best price to pay for a rebounder. More expensive ones will usually be made from better quality materials, meaning the important parts (such as the mat and bungee cords) will last longer.
However, there comes a point when you’ll basically just be paying for a brand name rather than any advances in technology. After all, a rebounder is a pretty low-tech piece of equipment.
If you just want a basic rebounder to try, there’s no need to spend more than £100. However, if you’re looking for a long-term piece of exercise equipment, you should be able to get a decent one for less than £200.
Either way, only use your budget as a rough guideline. The more important thing is to see what other people have to say about the rebounder you plan to buy. After all, owners of the product will have the best idea of what it’s like in the long term. Their thoughts might be able to sway you one way or another.
Is a Rebounder Good for Seniors?
A rebounder is good for seniors because it’s a form of low-impact exercise. It means it provides all the best cardio benefits without any harsh damage to joints. Considering seniors have more trouble with their joints than younger adults, rebounding is a good choice.
A low-impact exercise is one that raises the heart rate but doesn’t put strain on a person’s joints. On the other hand, something like running is high-impact because the shock of your feet hitting the ground puts stress on your ankles, knees and hips.
Is Rebounding Safe for Seniors?
Rebounding is perfectly safe for seniors providing they’re otherwise generally healthy. Despite being a low-impact exercise, there are some risks to rebounding. For example, if you have high/low blood pressure or pre-existing joint problems, it might not be as safe as you might think.
Of course, it’s not easy to say for sure whether rebounding is safe for every senior who wants to try it. The answer ultimately depends on the person’s current state of health.
As such, for a definite answer, it would be worth speaking either to your doctor or a fitness professional. You’ll be able to explain your current medical complications so they can give you specific advice about whether rebounding is the correct form of exercise for you.
That said, rebounding is generally a safe form of exercise for people of all ages.
What is the Best Rebounder for Seniors?
The best rebounder for seniors is one that combines stability and convenience. Seniors should look for rebounders with handles, as they make it much easier to keep your balance when using a rebounder. Similarly, it should have stable feet and a secure jumping platform.
For the most part, there’s no need for seniors to stay away from folding rebounders. While fixed rebounders will always be the more stable and secure option, most folding rebounders should lock in place when in use. If you decide to go for a folding rebounder, make sure it does this so you can be sure nothing will happen while using it.
Is the Bellicon Good for Seniors?
Bellicon is a brand that makes rebounders, so it’s a good option for seniors. Bellicon make models on the higher end of the price scale, so it’s fair to assume they have good build quality and features. That said, they’re not necessarily any better for seniors than any other make of rebounder.
Is Trampoline Exercise Good for Seniors?
Trampoline exercise is great for seniors because it’s low-impact aerobic exercise. It allows seniors to raise their heart rates without putting stress on their joints. While this is good for people of any age, it’s particularly beneficial for older adults because their joints are generally more fragile.
Let’s look at the reasons why rebounding is good for seniors.
1. Strengthens muscles without joint impact
Aerobic exercise is ideal for keeping fit. However, something like running can put a lot of stress on your joints, meaning it’s less than ideal for seniors. Rebounding negates this while also allowing you to build muscle strength.
This is because your legs are doing the same motion as something like running but without the impact of hitting the ground. It can help strengthen muscles in the legs, pelvis, and back, all of which can help reduce pain.
It’s worth noting that rebounding isn’t the same as trampolining. When using a rebounder, you focus more on the downward movement and don’t aim to spend too much time in the air. Essentially, you’re running on the spot on a bouncy platform.
Therefore, rebounding gives all the same aerobic and muscular benefits as other exercises but without the risk of damaging joints.
Strengthening muscles in this way is also great for balance. That said, make sure you use a bar when on the rebounder because it reduces the chances of falling off.
2. Improves blood flow
Like all aerobic exercises, rebounding makes your heart work harder and, by extension, improves blood flow. Seniors often suffer from poor circulation and blood pressure problems, and rebounding is great for managing these.
Rebounding can help improve your digestion and bowel movements. This is because it forces you to contract and relax your muscles, which get everything moving. As mentioned above, it helps work your core and pelvis areas to strengthen and improve muscles.
4. Helps with immune system
The slight anti-gravity action of rebounding helps stimulate your immune system. It’s basically the same reasoning behind improving blood flow, as your cells are pushed to work harder.
By extension, rebounding can also help flush your lymphatic system. Again, this is because of improved circulation, which makes everything work more efficiently.
5. It’s safe and easy
Compared to some other at-home exercises, rebounding is fairly safe and easy. Not only is the exercise low-impact, it’s also convenient for when you fancy a quick workout. Plus, rebounders are quite low to the floor, which makes them accessible to older people with mobility issues.
Similarly, rebounders for seniors can provide a surprisingly varied set of exercises. You might think that it’s literally just jumping up and down, but you can add a lot to this basic movement.
For example, you could use a rebounder for walking, jogging, or stretching. Adding in weights or other movements means you have plenty of options with very little investment.
Rebounder for Seniors
Hopefully, you’ve now got a good idea of what to look for in the best rebounder for seniors. Your pick will ultimately depend on your planned exercises, space, and budget.
While the products listed above should address most needs, the buying guide will help you make a pick if none of them match what you want. Either way, happy rebounding!
An ex-triathlete, fitness coach and writer with a Masters in Sports Physiology. Fitness is my passion and I've had my fair share of home fitness equipment tried and tested!